Earlier this week, I posted a photo that I took in Venice last year. Now that I have explored new parts of Italy, I am amazed at the diversity of its beauty. From the architecture and history of cities like Florence and Siena to the quiet streets of small towns in Tuscany, to the towering mountains of the Dolomites, the people and canals of Venice and on to the ruggedness of the Italian Coast, it has something for everyone.
This photo is one of the five villages that make up the renowned Cinque Terre: Manarola. The views of Cinque Terre are second to none. The history of how they came to build these villages, starting at the top of these cliffs to protect themselves from invaders (Turks and pirates), is fascinating. Over time, as the threats waned, they began to build their homes closer and closer to the Mediterranean Sea until there was nowhere left to build. Not only are they beautiful during the day, but something magical happens as night approaches. As darkness approaches and the lights begin to illuminate the homes and streets, a magical feeling seems to embrace you and brings you a wonderful sense of tranquility.